The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has banned carrying all kinds of sharp objects including knives, machetes, spears and swords during processions on the occasion of Ashura.
Metal and inflammable objects, firecrackers and carrying of small and large containers have been also prohibited in the announcement made by DMP Commissioner Asaduzzaman Mia on Tuesday (Sept 18).
He said that flags on poles with a height over 12 feet will not be allowed.
“We have taken stern security measures for the Holy Ashura” said the DMP boss “Multi-tier security arrangements have been taken with plain clothes officers assigned for the day.” he added.
He called on everyone to observe the Holy Ashura peacefully.
Shia Muslims observes the day by taking out Tazia procession in Dhaka and elsewhere in Bangladesh where they engage in self-flagellation.
Ashura is observed on the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic as a day of mourning in memory of Imam Hussein Ibn Ali, the second grandson of Prophet Muhammad who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD.